Fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus and method of use

ABSTRACT

A fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus including a container assembly with a wick assembly and a solution container, wherein the wick assembly is secured to at least one of the solution container and a dispenser, the dispenser receives at least one of the container assembly and solution container therein, and the dispenser is configured to dispense solution from the solution container; and a fan assembly situated in the dispenser.

FIELD

This invention relates fixture cleaning and deodorizing devices, andspecifically to a fixture cleaning device with a replaceable wickassembly and solution container.

BACKGROUND

Fixture cleaning and deodorizing devices are commonly utilized toaddress issues related to fixtures, such as toilets and urinals. Thesedevices can include a liquid solution having one or more of deodorizers,cleaners, and fragrances. The solution is commonly provided via a supplytube from a container mounted to the device. The solution is pumped intoa tube that passes the liquid solution either directly down an outputtube or into a reservoir area. The solution then passes into a spurgepipe or other inlet) connected to the fixture. The device can also hangover the fixture and drip into or onto the fixture. When affixed to afixture, flushing of the device pulls the solution into (through) thespurge pipe and ultimately to the fixture to mix with incoming water andliquid and/or solid waste in the fixture. The solution is provided at apredetermined or intermittent rate or during a flushing action. In somedevices, a wick is provided at the reservoir to absorb the solution andposition it to receive a greater exposure to airflow. Over time it iscommon for the wick to develop a layer of solidified/crystalizedsolution thereupon. Eventually, the solidified/crystalized solutionlimits the wick's ability to wick (capillary action) the solution and/orexpose the solution to airflow and therefore the device begins to failin its intended operation and can lead to overflowing of the reservoirarea. Periodic maintenance of the wick is required to maintainacceptable operation. Such maintenance requires a person to physicallyengage the wick, which can often be overlooked, and to remove it, whichis often a messy and unpleasant operation. If a wick is left unchangedlong enough, the device may require servicing to operate properly again.As such, maintenance is unpleasant, and often these devices are notproperly maintained.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a fixture cleaning anddeodorizing apparatus and method of use that overcomes at least some ofthese shortcomings.

BRIEF SUMMARY

in at least one embodiment, the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus includes a container assembly that includes a wick assemblyand a solution container, wherein the wick assembly is secured to atleast one of the solution container and a dispenser, wherein thedispenser receives at least one of the container assembly and solutioncontainer therein, and wherein the dispenser is configured to dispensesolution from the solution container; and a fan assembly situated in thedispenser.

In at least another embodiment, a fixture cleaning and deodorizingdispenser is provided that includes a dispenser housing; a housing coversecurable to the dispenser housing; a housing supply tube; a dispenserchamber configured to receive a solution container; one or more ridgesformed with or secured to the dispenser housing; one or more batterycompartments; a printed circuit board; a hammer for at least indirectlyengaging a valve assembly; and an output port in communication with thehousing supply tube.

In at least another embodiment, a wick assembly is provided thatincludes a plurality of spacers secured together to form a collapsiblewick support structure; a neck mount portion secured to a first end ofthe wick support structure, the neck mount portion configured to secureto a solution container; one or more wicks; and a wick mount secured toa second end of the wick support structure, the wick mount configured tosecure the one or more wicks thereto.

In at least another embodiment, a container assembly is provided thatincludes a solution container for housing a solution and a wick assemblyfurther that includes a plurality of spacers hingedly secured togetherin an accordion-style configuration; a neck mount portion secured to afirst of the plurality of spacers, the neck mount portion secured to thesolution container; one or more wicks; and a wick mount secured to alast of the plurality of spacers, the wick mount configured to securethe one or more wicks thereto.

In at least another embodiment, a method of wick replacement for afixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus is provided that includesaccessing a dispenser chamber of a dispenser; removing a first containerassembly from the dispenser chamber; installing a second containerassembly in the dispenser chamber, wherein the second container assemblyincludes a rear channel extending along a back of the solutioncontainer; providing a wick assembly having one or more wicks securedthereto; and actuating a plurality of spacers hingedly secured togetherto push the wicks downward along the rear channel.

Other embodiments, aspects, features, objectives and advantages of thefixture cleaning apparatus and method of use will be understood andappreciated upon a full reading of the detailed description and theclaims that follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus and methodof use are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings and arefor illustrative purposes only. The fixture and deodorizing cleaningapparatus and method of use are not limited in application to thedetails of construction, use, or the arrangement of the componentsillustrated in the drawings. The fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus and method of use are capable of other embodiments, or ofbeing practiced or carried out in other various ways. In the drawings:

FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of an exemplary fixture cleaning anddeodorizing apparatus that includes an exemplary dispenser and anexemplary container assembly;

FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of an alternative exemplary fixturecleaning and deodorizing apparatus that includes an exemplary dispenserand an exemplary container assembly;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view of the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 4 illustrates a back view of the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 5A illustrates an exploded perspective view of the containerassembly including a wick support structure;

FIG. 5B illustrates the container assembly of FIG. 5A in a non-explodedview;

FIG. 6 illustrates a view of the container assembly with the wicksupport structure in an installation position;

FIG. 7 illustrates a top perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 1Awith a direct output module installed;

FIG. 8 illustrates a top perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 1Awith a reservoir module installed;

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the dispenser of FIG.1A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 1A, with a housing cover removed; and across-sectional side view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 5B of thecontainer assembly 122;

FIG. 10 illustrates a view similar to FIG. 9, but with the containerassembly partially installed in the dispenser and the wick supportstructure in a non-installed position;

FIG. 11 illustrates a view similar to FIG. 10, but with the containerassembly fully installed in the dispenser with the wick supportstructure in an installed position;

FIG. 12 illustrates a view similar to FIG. 11, but with the housingcover in a closed position;

FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus with the housing cover removed;

FIG. 14 illustrates a front view of the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus with a gear cover removed;

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-section rear view of the fixture cleaningand deodorizing apparatus taken at line 15-15 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-section rear view of the fixture cleaningand deodorizing apparatus taken at line 16-16 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 17 illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view of the fixturecleaning and deodorizing apparatus of FIG. 1A, taken along line 17-17 ofFIG. 1A;

FIG. 18A illustrates an exploded perspective view of an alternativecontainer assembly;

FIG. 18B illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the assembledcontainer assembly of FIG. 18A;

FIG. 19A illustrates an alternative fixture cleaning and deodorizingdispenser with integrated pump valve assembly and housing cover removed;

FIG. 19B illustrates the alternative fixture cleaning and deodorizingdispenser of FIG. 19A with gear cover removed;

FIG. 20A illustrates an alternative exemplary pump valve assembly foruse with the fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser of FIGS. 19A and19B;

FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the pump valve assembly of FIG.20A;

FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 19A and 19B taken along the line 21-21 of FIG. 19B and across-sectional side view of the container assembly as illustrated inFIG. 18B;

FIG. 22 illustrates a view similar to FIG. 21, but with the containerassembly partially installed in the dispenser and the wick supportstructure in a non-installed position;

FIG. 23A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the dispenser withcontainer assembly fully installed in the dispenser;

FIG. 23B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the dispenser andcontainer assembly similar to FIG. 19B, but with the container assemblyfully installed in the dispenser;

FIG. 24 illustrates a cross-sectional rear view of a fixture cleaningand deodorizing apparatus similar to FIG. 17, but showing thealternative fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus of FIGS. 18-23;and

FIG. 25 illustrates a view of the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus connected to water supply piping.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1A, provided is a front view of an exemplary fixturecleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90, including a fixture cleaning anddeodorizing dispenser 100 and a container assembly 122 (not shown)secured within the fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser 100. Theapparatus 90 is configured to provide a metered amount of solution foruse in one or more of deodorizing, cleaning, or scenting a plumbingfixture or the air in a bathroom. The solution can include one or moreof various products, such as a deodorizer, cleaner, enzymes, bacteria,disinfectant, fragrance, etc.

The dispenser 100 includes a dispenser housing 102 and a housing cover104. An indicator group 106 is provided that extends through or ispositioned visibly behind the housing cover 104. Various sensors and/orLEDs 108 provide annunciation of operational status parameters, such aspower on/off, battery charge low, refill low, etc. and sensing ofvarious elements, such as motion, light, etc. Sensors can provideoperational feedback for enhanced control of the fixture cleaningapparatus 90 and annunciating lights can provide essential informationto maintenance personnel. In at least some embodiments, the fixturecleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90 further includes a primary outputport 110 and a secondary output port 112. The output ports 110, 112 areeach connected with a fixture such as a toilet, urinal, etc. In anotherembodiment, only the primary output port 110 is provided, as shown inFIG. 1B, and in yet another embodiment, neither output port is provided.

As further illustrated in FIG. 1B, indicator group 106′ may be a displayscreen or LCD capable of graphic and/or textual display of information,including, but not limited to, battery life, amount of solutionremaining in a solution container, error codes, time remaining untilnext refill, and combination of thereof.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the apparatus 90, displaying sideintake vents 114 and top intake vents 116 formed in the dispenserhousing 102. FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view of the apparatus 90 withprimary and secondary output ports 110, 112, FIG. 4 illustrates a backview of the apparatus 90 further illustrating the side intake vents 114and top intake vents 116, as well as various securing points 120 forsecuring the apparatus 90 to a structure, such as a wall. It isunderstood that alternative embodiments, such as when apparatus 90contains a single output port 110 as in FIG. 1B, dispenser housing 102can include side intake vents 114 and top intake vents 116 as describedabove.

Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, FIG. 5A illustrates an explodedperspective view of an exemplary container assembly 122 for use with thedispenser 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIG. 5B illustrates an assembledperspective view of the container assembly 122. As shown, the containerassembly 122 includes a wick assembly 124, a solution container 126, anda pump valve assembly 128. The pump valve assembly 128 includes a pump130, a fan assembly 240 (not shown), cap 132, and a container supplytube 134. The cap 132 secures the pump 130 to the solution container126. The wick assembly 124 includes a neck mount portion 142 secured toa wick support structure 143. The neck mount portion 142 includes apassage 144 configured for receipt around a solution container neck 146.In the embodiment shown, neck mount portion has a circular aperture;however, neck mount portion may be any shape or structure to secure oncontainer neck 146. Although not shown, other mechanisms can be providedin place of or in addition to the neck mount portion 142 to secure thewick assembly 124 to the solution container 126, such as an adhesive.The wick assembly 124 further includes one or more wicks, such as aprimary wick 136 and a secondary wick 138, both secured to a wick mount140, wherein the wick mount 140 is secured to the wick support structure143. In at least some embodiments, the wick support structure 143 can beformed solely from the wicks 136, 138 themselves, thereby eliminatingthe need for an additional component. The wicks 136, 138 are shown ascylindrical with bottom portions 201, although other shapes can beprovided, such as flat, rectangular, etc. The wick support structure 143includes a plurality of interconnected structures, such as rigid orsemi-rigid spacers 148, flexibly connected by hinges 150 to form acollapsible structure, such as an accordion-style folding structure. Thespacers 148 are connected at a first end 152 to the neck mount portion142 and at a second end 154 to the wick mount 140. Various portions ofthe wick assembly 124 are positioned at least partially in a rearchannel 153 that extends vertically along the back of the solutioncontainer 126. The rear channel 153 includes a channel bottom portion155 and side portions 157, which in sum, provide a path for directedmovement of the spacers 148 and the wick mount 140. In addition, theside portions 157 of the rear channel 153 can include vertical rails 159(FIG. 5B) that are positioned to support the wick mount 140 in the rearchannel 153 to allow for vertical travel about the channel bottomportion 155, but to inhibit horizontal movement out away from thechannel bottom portion 155. Although rails 159 are shown, othermechanisms such as tabs, channels, etc. can be utilized.

The solution container 126 is shaped and sized to fit inside thedispenser housing 102 with the housing cover 104 in a closed position,although other shapes and sized can be provided. The solution container126 can include protrusions 156 and/or channels that are configured tomatingly engage with mating channels or protrusions in the dispenserhousing 102. In this regard, only a solution container 126 with matchingchannels and/protrusions can be installed in the dispenser housing 102.In addition, the mating channels and/protrusions can serve to secure thecontainer assembly 122 to the dispenser housing 102. Further, thesolution container can be formed from various types of materials, rigid,semi-rigid, and flexible, for example, a rigid wall plastic container,or a flexible plastic bag.

As seen in FIG. 5B, the spacers 148 are situated in an at leastpartially folded position in the container channel 153. When thecontainer assembly 122 is installed in the dispenser housing 104, thespacers 148 are pushed into a flattened position, as discussed ingreater detail below. FIG. 6 provides a view of the container assembly122, wherein the unfolded positioning of the wick support structure 143shown is representative of the positioning of the wick support structure143 when the container assembly 122 is installed in the dispenser 100.More particularly, the spacers 148 have been unfolded into a flatposition adjacent to the channel bottom portion 155 of the rear channel153, thereby displacing in a downward direction the wick mount 140 alongwith the wicks 136, 138.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a top perspective view of the dispenser 100with the housing cover 104 removed and without a reservoir installed isshown. As shown, the dispenser housing 102 includes an upper latch 170for engaging a mating portion on the housing cover 104. A fan on/offswitch 172 and a dipswitch panel 174 are utilized to configure solutiondosing frequency and fan activation (discussed below). The dispenserhousing 102 further includes a neck receiver 176 to receive the solutioncontainer neck 146 and to assist with proper positioning and securementof the container assembly 122 inside a dispenser chamber 178 of thedispenser 100. A pair of battery compartments 180 are provided on eitherside of the dispenser chamber 178, the chambers 178 formed at least inpart by battery supports 182. Additional or alternate power sources canbe utilized as well, such as a 120 VAC, using a step-down transformer(not shown) positioned in a modified space inside the dispenser 100. Asdiscussed above, the solution container 126 can include protrusions 156and/or channels that are configured to matingly engage with matingchannels or protrusions in the dispenser housing 102. A valve stemconnector 189 is provided that secures to the pump valve assembly 128 toreceive solution from the solution container 126. Additionally, ahousing supply tube 190 is provided that communicates solution, pumpedfrom the container 126, through the housing and to an output port, suchas the primary output port 110 and/or the secondary output port 112.

The dispenser 100 can be provided either with a direct output module 192(FIG. 7) or a reservoir module 194 (FIG. 8). The direct output module192 is configured to pass solution directly through the dispenser 100 asdemanded. Such a configuration is utilized when the wick assembly 124 isnot included to provide a source of fragrance for emission from thedispenser 100. When a purchaser of the product does not wish tocapitalize on the wick assembly 124, they can purchase the dispenser 100with the direct output module 192 along with a solution container 126that lacks the wick assembly 124, and the system is ready to use, if apurchaser wishes to utilize the wick assembly 124 to provide a source offragrance, they can easily remove the direct output module 192 andinstall the reservoir module 194 as seen in FIG. 8.

FIG. 8 illustrates another top perspective view of the dispenser 100with the reservoir module 194 installed in place of the direct outputmodule 192. When the reservoir module 194 is utilized, the housingsupply tube 190 extends to a reservoir 196 formed in the reservoirmodule 194. Solution pumped from the container assembly 122 is receivedand collected in the reservoir 196. When switching the reservoir module194 for the direct output module 192, or vice-versa, the operator onlyhas to remove the housing supply tube 190 from one module and re-installin the other module.

The reservoir module 194 includes one or more wick inlets, such as aprimary wick inlet 198 and a secondary wick inlet 200. The wick inlets198, 200 receive a wick bottom portion 201 of the wicks 136, 138 thereinwhen wick assembly 124 is in its unfolded position (FIG. 11). Ridges 212force wick assembly 124 into its unfolded position. When the wick bottomportion 201 of the wicks 136, 138 are positioned in the wick inlets 198,200 and the solution includes a fragrance component, the fragrancesituated in the reservoir 196 is absorbed by the wicks and travels upthe wicks 136, 138 to provide an increased surface area fordispersing/emanating the fragrance.

Referring now to FIG. 9, illustrated is a cross-sectional side view ofthe fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90 with the containerassembly 122 removed from the dispenser 100. As the container assembly122 is not installed in the dispenser 100, the wicks 136, 138 (alongwith the wick mount 140) remain in an upwards pre-installation positionto allow clearance to install the container assembly 122. In addition,the spacers 148 remain in a partially folded position. FIG. 10illustrates the fixture cleaning apparatus 90 with the containerassembly 122 partially installed in the dispenser 100. As shown, thehinges 150 are in abutment with a front surface 210 of a pair of ridges212 extending from the dispenser housing 102. The ridges 212 serve topush the spacers 148 into an unfolded position as the container assembly122 is inserted into the dispenser chamber 178 of the dispenser 100.More particularly, with the spacers 148 sandwiched between the channelbottom portion 155 of the rear channel 153 and the front surface 210 ofa pair of ridges 212, the wick mount 140 must move downwards to allowthe spacers 148 to shift.

As further shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a portion of the pump valve assembly128 protrudes from cap assembly 132 to engage valve stem connector 189.In the exemplary embodiment shown, valve stern connector 189 is a femaleelement configured to receive the portion of the pump valve assembly 128protruding from the cap assembly 132. Similarly, housing supply tube 190is secured to valve stern connector 189 opposite pump valve assembly.Valve stern connector 189 includes a male component which inserts intothe housing supply tube 190. The valve stem connector therefore createsa fluid tight seal between the pump valve assembly 128 and the housingsupply tube 190 and puts the pump 130 in operable connection with thehousing supply tube 190. In further embodiments, the pump valve assembly128 (and therefore pump 130 and container supply tube 134) may beconnected to the housing supply tube 190 using additional structures,including, but not limited to, friction-fit connectors, male-femaleconnectors, clasps, and other structures known in the art.

FIG. 11 illustrates the fixture cleaning apparatus 90 with the containerassembly 122 fully installed in the dispenser 100. As shown, the spacers148 have been pushed flat against the channel bottom portion 155 of therear channel 153 and the wick mount 140 has shifted downwards along withthe wicks 136, 138 such that the wick bottom portion 201 of the wicks136, 138 are positioned in the primary wick inlet 198 and secondary wickinlet 200. In addition, pushing the solution container 126 in placecauses an abutment of the solution container 126 with a reset switch 220to communicate to a processor (not shown) mounted on a printed circuitboard 221, that a refill has been installed. FIG. 12 illustrates thefixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90 with the housing cover 104installed and fan assembly 240 visible. Using close tolerances, theability to close the housing cover 104 properly can be used as anindication that the container assembly 122 has been fully installed inthe dispenser 100, since without a full flattening of the spacers 148extra space between the channel bottom portion 155 of the rear channel153 would exist.

Removal of the container assembly 122 also removes the complete wickassembly 124 with the wicks 136, 138 intact, thereby eliminating thehassle and mess of separately removing the wicks and ensuring that thewicks are replaced with each refill of solution to prevent failureinducing degradation and potential overflowing of reservoir 196. In thisregard, the overall reliability, longevity, and effectiveness of thefixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90 is substantially enhanced.As noted, the container assembly 122 need not include the wick assembly124.

FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of the fixture cleaning apparatus 90with the housing cover 104 removed, showing the valve stem connector 189secured to the pump valve assembly 128. The valve stem connector 189 isconfigured to receive force from a hammer 232, which depresses the valvestem connector 189 and subsequently actuates the pump valve assembly128, thereby pumping solution from the solution container 126 throughthe valve stem connector 189 and into the housing supply tube 190. Gearcover 234 is covering gears 236. FIG. 14 illustrates a front view of theapparatus 90 with the housing cover 104 and gear cover 234 (FIG. 13)removed. The hammer 232 is driven by one or more gears 236, which arepowered by an electric motor 238 (FIG. 15). Actuation of the motor 238results in rotation of the hammer 232.

Although a wick-containing reservoir system can provide a suitablefragrance distribution system, a fan assembly 240 can be provided, suchas a squirrel-cage fan assembly, to enhance emanation/dispersion offragrance from the wicks 136, 138, FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectionrear view of the apparatus 90 taken at line 15-15 of FIG. 2. As seen inFIG. 15, a fan cover 242 is provided to seal one side of a fan bladechamber 244 (FIG. 16). Referring to FIG. 16, provided is a cross-sectionrear view of the apparatus 90 taken at line 16-16 of FIG. 2 with the fancover 242 removed for clarity. When activated, the fan assembly 240pulls fresh air through the side intake vents 114 and top intake vents116. The fresh air 243 is pushed through the fan blade chamber 244 (FIG.17) and downwards into a fan passage 246 (Ha 17) that includes variousportions of the fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90, such as,an inner back portion 247 (FIG. 17) of the dispenser housing 102, therear channel 153, the solution container 126, and the housing cover 104.As the fresh air 243 is directed past the wicks 136, 138 and thereservoir 196, the scent of the solution is forced out of the fixturecleaning apparatus 90 as scented air 245 and into the room that theapparatus 90 occupies. Use of the fan assembly 240 in this regard allowsfor enhanced dispersion of scent. FIG. 17 illustrates a partialcross-sectional side view of the apparatus 90, taken along line 17-17 ofFIG. 1A. FIG. 17 further illustrates the path of the fresh air 243through the fixture cleaning apparatus 90.

In the exemplary embodiments described above, pump valve assembly 128and pump 130 are provided as part of container assembly 122. However, infurther exemplary embodiments, pump valve assembly 128′ and pump 130′can be provided as part of fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser100′, as illustrated in FIGS. 18-24. It is to be understood andappreciated that, by providing, and more specifically integrating, thepump valve assembly 128′ with fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser100′, the pump valve assembly 128′ does not need to be replaced when thesolution container 126′ is replaced.

FIG. 18A illustrates an exploded perspective view of an alternativecontainer assembly 122′ including a wick assembly 124 for use with afixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser 100′ having an integratedpump valve assembly 128′ and pump 130′. FIG. 18B illustrates across-sectional view of the assembled container assembly 122′ of FIG.18A. Container assembly 122′ includes solution container 126′, wickassembly 124 with wicks 136, 138, and the other structural components ofthe container assembly 122 described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B,above. However, instead of pump valve assembly 128, alternativecontainer assembly 122′ includes container supply tube 134 with capassembly 132′. Cap assembly 132′ includes cap 132 a′ and tube cap 132b′.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, tube cap 132 b′ contains livinghinges on the exterior surface to engage the inside of container neck146′. In further embodiments, tube cap 132 b′ may include structures inaddition to or in place of living hinges to secure tube cap 132 b′ incontainer neck 146′, including, but not limited to, threading,friction-fit components, corresponding contours, and other structuresknown in the art. Tube cap 132 b′ also includes inner contours whichsecure container supply tube 134 to cap assembly 132′. Cap 132 a′ isthreaded on its interior surface to engage the outer threads ofcontainer neck 146′. In further exemplary embodiments, cap 132 a′ mayinclude structures in addition to or in place of threads to secure cap132 a′ to neck 146′, including, but not limited to, friction-fitcomponents, corresponding contours, clasps, and other structures knownin the art. Cap 132 a′ includes an aperture at the top surface to allowaccess to solution container 126′ contents. Cap 132 a′ may also includean optional integrated seal, such as a foil covering over the apertureof cap 132 a′. The optional integrated seal may be removed beforesolution container 126′ is secured in fixture cleaning and deodorizingdispenser 100′. In an alternative embodiment, the optional integratedseal may be punctured or ruptured by a structure in the fixture cleaningand deodorizing dispenser 100 when container assembly 122′ is installedin dispenser 100′.

FIG. 19A illustrates fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser 100′with housing cover 104′ removed and gear cover 234′ in place. Indicatorgroup 106′ and switches 172′, 176′ are used to configure solution dosingfrequency and fan activation (as discussed above). FIG. 19B illustratesfixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser 100′ with housing cover 104′and gear cover 234′ removed. As illustrated in FIG. 19B, pump valveassembly 128′ includes valve stern connector 189′, pump 130′, gears 236′and hammer 232′, as described in further detail in FIGS. 20A and 20B.Dispenser housing 102′ further includes neck receiver 176′ to receivesolution container neck 146′ and assist with proper position andsecurement of container assembly 122′ inside dispenser chamber 178′.Because pump valve assembly 128′ and pump 130′ are included andintegrated with fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser 100′, neckreceiver 176′ includes valve stern connector 189′ with pump 130′.

As discussed with reference to FIG. 8, above, battery compartments 180are also provided, and FIG. 19A shows a plurality of batteries 181secured in position partially using battery supports 182. In theexemplary embodiment shown, fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus90′ uses four batteries, but it is to be understood that alternativeand/or additional power sources may be utilized, including, but notlimited to, 120 VAC.

As further discussed with reference to FIG. 8, above, fixture cleaningand deodorizing dispenser 100′ also includes reservoir module 194. Whenreservoir module 194 is utilized, housing supply tube 190′ extends to areservoir 196 (not shown) in reservoir module 194. Ridges 212 indispenser chamber 178′ force wick assembly 124 (not shown) into a downposition, as described above, such that the bottom portions 201 of wicks136, 138 contact solution contained in reservoir 196. In alternativeembodiments, dispenser 100′ with integrated pump valve assembly 128′ caninclude a direct output module 192 in place of reservoir module 194, asdiscussed with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

it is to be appreciated that removing gear cover 234′ not only providesaccess to gears 236′, but also pump valve assembly 128′ for repair work.It is to be further understood and appreciated that pump valve assembly128′ may be fully removed from fixture cleaning and deodorizingdispenser 100′, as illustrated in FIGS. 20A and 20B, for repair or to bereplaced.

FIG. 20A illustrates and exemplary pump valve assembly 128′ in furtherdetail and removed from fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispenser 100′,and FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the pump valve assembly 128′of FIG. 20A. As illustrated, pump 130′ is connected to container supplytube 134′ by way of valve stem connector 189′ and pumps solution fromcontainer 126′ to metered pump element 312′. O-ring grooves 131′ aredisposed between valve stem connector 189′ and pump 130′ and areconfigured to accept and secure O-rings which provide a seal when valvestem connector 189′ engages a solution container 126′ (not shown). Insome embodiments, the o-rings create a fluid tight seal in the containerneck 146′. In further exemplary embodiments, the o-rings create anairtight seal. It is to be understood that a single o-ring may be usedand other structures may be used alone or in conjunction with theO-rings to create seal, including, but not limited to, gaskets, physicalcontours, interlocking components, and other structures known in theart.

Metered pump element 312′ stores solution when transfer tube 330′ isclosed, such as by ball valve 319′. Piston 320′, on opposite end ofmetered pump element 312′ from ball valve 319′, is configured to beactivated by hammer 232′.

As shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, transfer tube 315′ is closed by ballvalve 319′ when piston 320′ is in the out position. When piston 320′ isactuated by hammer 232′ to the in position (not shown), solution frommetered pump element 312′ is forced down transfer tube 330′ and ballvalve 319′ is forced to an open position. Housing supply tube connection315′ is configured to connect to housing supply tube 190′ (not shown).Solution then proceeds through transfer tube 330′ and into housingsupply tube 190′ (not shown), which transfers the solution to thereservoir module 194 (not shown).

As illustrated in FIGS. 20A and 20B, metered pump element 312′ is ametered pump area operably connected with the pump 130′, piston 320′ andhousing supply tube connection 315′. The pump 130′ is configured orprogrammed to pump a metered amount of solution from container 126′ tothe metered pump element 312′. In further exemplary embodiments, meteredpump element 312′ may be an independent physical structure.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, housing supply tube connection 315′is a male feature onto which the housing supply tube 190′ (not shown) isconnected. Housing supply tube connection 315′ and housing supply tube190′ (not shown) remain connected by friction, but in further exemplaryembodiments, may be joined using additional structures, including butnot limited to, male-female connectors, clasps, and other structuresknown in the art.

FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of dispenser 100′ andcontainer assembly 122′ with container assembly 122′ ready to install indispenser 100′. As container assembly 122′ is not installed in dispenser100′, wicks 136 (not shown), 138 remain in an upwards pre-installationposition with spacers 148 partially folded. Valve stem connector 189′with pump 130′ are angled to meet tube cap 132 b′. Cap 132 a′ includesoptional integrated seal 132 c′, which is covering the aperture in cap132 a′.

FIG. 22 illustrates the cross-sectional view of FIG. 21 with containerassembly 122′ partially installed in dispenser 100′. As shown, malevalve stem connector 189′ with pump 130′ engages the inner surface offemale tube cap 132 b′, and valve stem connector 189′ has ruptured seal132 c′ of cap 132 a′. O-rings which sit in O-ring grooves 131′ (notshown) have a diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of tube cap132 b′ and thereby creates a seal at container neck 146′.

As container assembly 122′ continues to a fully installed position andis secured in dispenser 100′, wick assembly 124 is forced into anexpanded position such that spacers 148 are sandwiched between thechannel bottom portion 155 of the rear channel 153 and front surface 210of a pair of ridges 212, and the wick mount 140 with wicks 136, 138 isforced downward such that wicks 136, 138 are exposed to solution inreservoir module 194. This movement is described in detail withreference to FIGS. 9-11, above.

FIG. 23A illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the fixturecleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90′ with the housing cover 104′ andgear cover 234′ removed and container assembly 120′ fully installed.FIG. 23B illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the fixturecleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90′ with the housing cover 104′ andgear cover 234′ removed, as well as a cross-sectional view of the fullyinstalled container assembly 120′ of FIG. 23A.

As illustrated in FIG. 23A, piston 320′ is in the “out” position,meaning solution from solution container 126′ is currently stored inmetered pump element 312′. FIG. 23B shows piston 320′ in the “in”position, meaning the hammer 232′ has been activated and solution whichwas previously stored in the metered pump element 312′ has been forcedthrough transfer tube 330′ and to housing supply tube 190′ (not shown)via housing tube connection 315′.

As shown in FIG. 23B, pump 130′ goes into container 126′, and morespecifically tube cap 132 b′, when container assembly 122′ is secured indispenser chamber 178′.

FIG. 23B also shows pump valve assembly 128′ in more detail with gears236′ and hammer 232′. The hammer 232′ is driven by one or more gears236′, which are powered by an electric motor 238′ as shown in FIG. 24.Actuation of the motor 238′ results in rotation of the hammer 232′,which ultimately forces solution into housing supply tube 190′

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional rear view of the apparatus 90′ showing fanassembly 240′ and motor 238′. As seen in FIG. 24, a fan cover 242′ isprovided to seal fan blade chamber 244′ (not shown), as summarized belowand described fully with reference to FIG. 15.

As described above, when activated, fan assembly 240′ pulls fresh airthrough the side intake vents 114 and top intake vents 116 (not shown).The fresh air is pushed through the fane blade chamber 244′ and into fanpassage 246′ (not shown). As the fresh air is directed past the wicks136, 138 (not shown) and reservoir module 194 (not shown), the scent ofthe solution is forced out of fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus90′ and into the room the apparatus 90′ occupies.

FIG. 25 illustrates a view of the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus 90 with only a single output port 250, which is connected topiping for a toilet/urinal. More particularly, the output port 250 isconnected to an output line 252, which is connected to a spurge pipe 254via a saddle valve 256. An auto-flush valve 258 is shown that controlsthe flow of the water from the supply pipe 260 into the spurge pipe 254.Flushing of the fixture creates a drop in pressure in the output line252, which allows a metered amount of solution to be released into theoutput line 252, as solution already present in the output line 252 ispulled into the spurge pipe via suction created at the spurge pipe 254.It is to be understood that the apparatus 90 need not be connected to aspurge pipe 254, it can be connected to other water supply piping or thedirectly to the fixture itself, including being supported adjacent tothe fixture to provide the solution via gravity feed.

In use, when a solution container 126 is empty as indicated by theindicators 106, the housing cover 104 is lifted and the containerassembly 122 is removed from the dispenser 100. A new container assembly122 is installed in the dispenser chamber 178 of the dispenser 100 andthe lid is closed. Installation of the new container assembly 122 pushesthe reset switch 220, which communicates to the processor that a newcontainer assembly 122 has been installed. The spacers 148 and/or hinges150 are pushed against the ridges 212 to flatten the spacers 148 andpush the wick mount downwards, inserting the bottom portions 201 of thewicks 136, 138 into the wick inlets 198, 200.

Dispersion of the solution from the apparatus 90 can occur based on anumber of criteria, such as scheduled time, a dark room sensed, a flushsensed, etc. These criteria are provided and managed by the dipswitchpanel 174 on the printed circuit board 221. When the fixture cleaningand deodorizing apparatus 90 is activated to disperse the solution, theprocessor activates the hammer 232 to push down the valve stem connector189 on the pump valve assembly 128. Actuation of the pump valve assembly128 pumps solution through the container supply tube 134 and into thehousing supply tube 190. At the same time, solution that was in thehousing supply tube 190 is pumped into the reservoir 196. Further,solution that resided in the reservoir 196 is pulled through an outletport (110, 112, 250), which is connected to an output line (252), whichis connected to a spurge pipe 254. Finally, the solution in the spurgepipe 254 is pulled into the fixture. Although some fragrance (whenincluded in the solution) will emanate from the solution, as thesolution enters and is processed by the fixture, the majority ofemanation will come from the wicks 136, 138. As noted above, when a fanassembly 240 is provided, the fan can be activated by a flushing of thefixture or on a scheduled basis or sensed basis. As the wicks 136, 138are continuously soaked with solution (with fragrance), the fan assembly240 can be operated at any time to emanate a scent from the fixturecleaning apparatus 90.

In at least some embodiments, the fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus 90 can be utilized solely as an air freshener/deodorizer. Assuch the output ports 110, 122 can be plugged or otherwise non-existent.The solution would include only a fragrance and/or deodorizer that isdelivered to a reservoir similar to reservoir 196 and absorbed by one ormore wicks, such as wicks 136, 138. By utilizing the fan assembly 240,the apparatus 90 can provide a sufficient airflow to function as an airfreshener/deodorizer.

The shape and size of the aforementioned components can be modified toaccommodate installation space requirements, desired level of solutionprocessing and fragrance emanation, etc. In addition, the describedlocation of components of the fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus90 can be modified to accommodate various shapes and sizes of thefixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatus 90 and/or to improveefficiency. The spacers 148 can be formed from various materials, suchas a wick material or plastic that is configured in any of numerousshapes and sizes. The wicks 136, 138 can be secured to the wick mount inany one of numerous ways, such as protruding rings 125 (FIG. 5B) thatallow for insertion of the wicks 136, 138 in a vertical orientation.Also, when a single wick is used, the wick mount can be modified toprovide a centered mounting point for the wick.

If the solution container 126 is a liner/bag, can affix the wicks 136,138 to the solution container 126 (tape, glue, etc.) on a back side ofthe solution container 126. The male plastic features (similar to parts212 on FIG. 10) can push in the flexible bag accordingly (with thecloser of the main cover 104) and therefore, also push down the wicks136, 138 into place in the reservoir.

Additionally, the spacer 148, hinge 150, and wick mount 140configuration used to shift the wicks into the wick inlets 198, 200 canbe replaced with other configurations, such as a flexible arc-shaped rodthat is secured to an upper portion of the rear channel 153 and a wickholder at a lower portion of the rear channel 153, wherein the arc ofthe rod is collapsed when abutted with the ridges 212 or the dispenserhousing 102, to push the wick holder downwards. Further, the componentscan be substituted with other components that perform a similarfunction, such as a different style of fan.

While FIG. 25 is described in reference to the fixture cleaning anddeodorizing apparatus 90, it is to be understood that the apparatus 90may be replaced with the alternative fixture cleaning and deodorizingapparatus 90′.

Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure have been shownand described in detail, above, it should be understood that numerouschanges and modifications can be made without departing from the scopeof the appended claims. For example, the above described fixturecleaning and deodorizing apparatuses may include various embodiments andcombination of embodiments of the various components described herein.Nonlimiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure areprovided below.

In an embodiment, E1, a fixture cleaning and deodorizing apparatusincludes a dispenser housing, a housing cover securable to the dispenserhousing, a housing supply tube, a dispenser chamber configured toreceive a solution container, one or more ridges formed with or securedto the dispenser housing, one or more battery compartments, a printedcircuit board, a hammer for at least indirectly engaging a valveassembly of a solution container, and an output port in communicationwith the housing supply tube. E2. The dispenser of E1 further comprisinga reservoir module for receiving one or more wicks, E3. The dispenser ofE2, wherein the reservoir module includes one or more wick inlets, E4.The dispenser of E2, wherein the one or more wicks are secured in a wickassembly.

E5. The dispenser of E4, wherein the wick assembly is slidably attachedto the solution container, E6. The dispenser of E4, wherein the wickassembly comprises a plurality of spacers secured together to form acollapsible wick support structure; a neck mount portion secured to afirst end of the wick support structure, the neck mount portionconfigured to secure to the solution container; one or more wicks; and awick mount secured to a second end of the wick support structure, thewick mount configured to secure the one or more wicks thereto. E7. Thedispenser of E6, wherein the solution container further comprises a rearwick assembly receiving channel.

E8. The dispenser of E1 further comprising a fan assembly configured todirect airflow through the dispenser housing. E9. The dispenser of E1further comprising a direct output module. E10. The dispenser of E1,wherein the hammer is activated by a plurality of gears. E11. Thedispenser of E1 further comprising an indicator group comprising atleast one indicator component selected from the group consisting of anLED, a sensor, and combinations thereof. E12. The dispenser of E1,wherein the valve assembly includes a pump integrated with the dispenserhousing. E13. The dispenser of E1, wherein the solution containerincludes a pump.

According to an embodiment, E14, a wick assembly includes a plurality ofspacers secured together to form a collapsible wick support structure; aneck mount portion secured to a first end of the wick support structure,the neck mount portion configured to secure to a solution container; oneor more wicks; and a wick mount secured to a second end of the wicksupport structure, the wick mount configured to secure the one or morewicks. E15. The wick assembly of E14, wherein the plurality of spacersare secured together with hinges, E16. The wick assembly of E14, whereinthe wick assembly is secured on a container assembly, the containerassembly comprising a solution container for housing a solution, thesolution container comprising a container neck and a rear wick assemblyreceiving channel; and a container supply tube. E17. The wick assemblyof E16, wherein the container assembly further comprises a pump and pumpvalve assembly.

According to an embodiment, E18, a method of wick replacement for afixture cleaner apparatus includes accessing a dispenser chamber of adispenser; removing a first container assembly from the dispenserchamber; installing a second container assembly in the dispenserchamber, wherein the second container assembly includes a rear channelextending along, a back of the solution container; providing a wickassembly having one or more wicks secured thereto; and actuating aplurality of spacers hingedly secured together to push the wicksdownward along the rear channel. E19. The method of E18 furthercomprising actuating a fan assembly to provide airflow past the wicks.E20. The method of E18 further comprising physically contacting a resetswitch with the second container assembly. E21. The method of E18further comprising communicating the presence of the second containerassembly to a processor. E22. The method of E18 further comprisingresetting at least one indicator selected from the group consisting ofan LED and a sensor.

It is specifically intended that the fixture cleaner and deodorizingapparatus and method of use not be limited to the embodiments andillustrations contained herein, but include modified forms of thoseembodiments including portions of the embodiments and combinations ofelements of different embodiments as come within the scope of thefollowing claims.

We claim:
 1. A pump valve assembly for use with a cleaning anddeodorizing dispenser comprising: a pump in operable connection with ametered pump element, wherein the metered pump element comprises ahollow portion which has a volume; a valve stem connector in operableconnection with the pump and configured to be secured with respect to asolution container; a piston at a first end of and in operableconnection with the metered pump element, the piston configured toreduce the volume of the metered pump element upon activation; and ahousing supply tube connection at a second end of and in operableconnection with the metered pump element.
 2. The pump valve assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the metered pump element and housing supply connectionare joined by a transfer tube.
 3. The pump valve assembly of claim 2,wherein the transfer tube includes a valve.
 4. The pump valve assemblyof claim 3, wherein the valve is a ball valve.
 5. The pump valveassembly of claim 1, wherein the pump valve assembly comprises a hammerand the piston is activated by the hammer.
 6. The pump valve assembly ofclaim 1 further comprising an o-ring disposed between the valve stemconnector and pump.
 7. A fixture cleaning and deodorizing dispensercomprising: a dispenser housing; a housing cover securable to thedispenser housing; a housing supply tube; a solution containercomprising the pump valve assembly of claim 1; a dispenser chamberconfigured to receive the solution container; one or more ridges formedwith or secured to the dispenser housing; one or more batterycompartments; a printed circuit board; a hammer for at least indirectlyengaging a valve assembly; and an output port in communication with thehousing supply tube.
 8. The dispenser of claim 7, wherein the solutioncontainer includes a container neck, a tube cap at least partiallycontained in the container neck, and a cap at least partially coveringthe container neck and tube cap.
 9. The dispenser of claim 8, whereinthe cap further includes an integrated seal.
 10. The dispenser of claim1 further comprising a wick assembly slidably attached to the solutioncontainer, wherein the wick assembly comprises a plurality of spacerssecured together to form a collapsible wick support structure; a neckmount portion secured to a first end of the wick support structure, theneck mount portion configured to secure to the solution container; oneor more wicks; and a wick mount secured to a second end of the wicksupport structure, the wick mount configured to secure the one or morewicks thereto.
 11. The dispenser of claim 7, wherein the pump valveassembly further comprises a a piston which is activated by the hammer.12. The dispenser of claim 11, wherein the hammer is activated by aplurality of gears.